My knuckles still hum with the memory of the first time I traded padded gloves for the unadulterated connection of skin to skin in the ring. Brandon Jenkins, a warrior sculpted by the discipline of karate and hardened in the crucible of bare-knuckle boxing, joined me to recount the visceral journey from traditional combat sports to the unforgiving world of gloveless fighting. We navigated the psychological minefield where the sight of blood can either spell defeat or stoke the fires of victory. Brandon peeled back the curtain on his tactical playbook, revealing the grueling recovery that shadows each brutal encounter and the strategies that can tip the scales in a fight where every strike carries the weight of unfiltered force.

As laughter is the best medicine, even in the heat of combat, we swapped tales of the sometimes-comedic struggle for the perfect glove fit, before veering into the sobering reality of careers made and broken under the bright lights of the UFC. We toasted the unsung heroes of the sport—the management teams whose unwavering support can mean the difference between a rise to glory and a tumble from grace. Through Brandon's eyes, we witnessed the raw emotion of being released from the UFC, a stark reminder that beneath the muscle and grit lies a human heart that beats for acknowledgment and respect.

Away from the echoes of the crowd and the intensity of the spotlight, our conversation turned homeward, to the companions that ask for no titles or victories—our pets. We shared the poignant chapters of life with our furry friends, their quirks, and the silent understanding that only a pet can offer. Whether you're a die-hard fan of the fight game or just someone who appreciates the fortitude of those who step into the arena, this episode with Brandon Jenkins offers an unflinching glimpse into the soul of a fighter and the laughter and love that sustain them outside the ropes. Join us on the Marcus Deegan Show for this unforgettable foray into the hearts of warriors.--------- EPISODE CHAPTERS ---------

(0:00:03) - Bare Knuckle Combat Sports Insights(0:05:13) - Different Fighting Styles in Combat Sports(0:11:42) - Navigating UFC Dismissal and Learning(0:14:39) - Fighter's Career Journey and Challenges(0:24:29) - Fighters Discuss MMA and Memes(0:34:00) - Fighters Talk About Upcoming Opportunities(0:39:32) - Bonding Over Pets and Life Reflections(0:47:16) - Muse Mushroom Infused Products on Podcast